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- Title
Work-related quality of life for support workers and the Pay Equity Settlement Act 2017.
- Authors
Barry, Christine; Severinsen, Christina; Towers, Andy
- Abstract
Aim: This study aims to explore the impact of the Care and Support Worker (Pay Equity) Settlement Act (2017) on the work-related quality of life of homecare support workers. Background: Previous research found negative consequences from the Act's implementation on care and support workers' quality of life; however work-related quality of life has not been addressed, providing an opportunity for further investigation. Methodology: The study used a qualitative approach and conducted semi-structured interviews with eight female homecare support workers in 2021. The interviews were analysed thematically using Van Laar et al's (2007) Work-Related Quality of Life model. Findings: The findings indicate that the Act's implementation has adversely affected participants' work-related quality of life. Five key themes were identified, including work re-organisation and intensification, undesirable collegial working relations, and a decline in managerial support and communication. Additionally, pay increments were identified as not keeping up with inflation. Discussion: This study highlights the need for sector-specific guidelines for homecare support workers and standard regulations for providers. The implementation of future legislation should also undergo careful reassessment of how fiscal measures are used. Conclusion: The Care and Support Worker (Pay Equity) Settlement Act (2017) has had a negative impact on participants' quality of life at work. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the unintended consequences of the Act's implementation on care and support workers and the need for improvements in the sector.
- Subjects
NEW Zealand; QUALITY of work life; RESEARCH methodology; HOME health aides; INTERVIEWING; WORK-life balance; QUALITATIVE research; PAY equity; PSYCHOSOCIAL factors; JOB satisfaction; THEMATIC analysis; PSYCHOLOGICAL stress
- Publication
Kaitiaki Nursing Research, 2023, Vol 14, Issue 1, p5
- ISSN
1179-772X
- Publication type
Article